Bats and
Larger Developments

On larger development sites, local authorities must assess if the favourable conservation status of bats could be impacted, and they will require bat surveys to find out.

Local authorities in Scotland are required to consider protected species - including bats - in determining applications.

Bats and Larger Developments

On larger development sites they must assess if the favourable conservation status of bats could be impacted and will require bat surveys to be carried out.

The planning authority needs to know if bats are using the site for roosting, hunting, or commuting routes, and if so are they likely to be impacted by the proposed work.

In some cases you may need an Ecological Impact Assessment, and bat surveys will form part of the information gathered to complete the assessment.

Depending on what is already present on the site, the necessary work may include:

  • Stage 1 and 2 bat surveys of any buildings present.

  • Assessment of any trees present for roosting bats.

  • Climbed inspection of possible tree roosts.

  • Activity surveys to assess commuting and hunting by bats on site.

  • Monitoring to assess species present on site and changes in activity.

  • Assessment of any structures on site for their potential to be used by hibernating bats.

Survey work for larger development sites is seasonal

Whilst some of the work listed above can be done at any time of year (and tree assessments are better done in winter with no foliage present), much of the survey effort must take place in the warmer months and may take several months to complete. Forward planning is essential to give accurate timelines and prevent last minute delays and associated costs.

We always recommend an informal discussion with one of our specialist ecologists as early as possible in the life of a project.

By engaging an ecologist early in the planning process, you ensure seasonal survey work is included in your project plan from the outset. We have many years experience of carrying out bat surveys at many different types of development site, and are always happy to help at any stage.

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Contact our team of ecologists

If you have any questions about bats or other protected species, what to do about organising a survey, or need general information, we welcome your inquiry.

What Our Clients Say

  • Having worked with David Dodds Associates for a number of years, the service received is excellent and always provides expert ecological advice.

    • Lynne McNeely, Carneil Homes Ltd, Kinross

  • “Montgomery Forgan Associates has worked with David for many years on planning projects for mutual clients. David's work is first class, always delivered on time and is keenly priced. David has a wealth of knowledge on all ecological matters, with a highly valued specialism in bat surveys. Montgomery Forgan Associates would have no hesitation in recommending David to its clients.”

    • David Queripel, Montgomery Forgan Associates, Cupar

  • “We have found David Dodds very helpful in providing us with bat surveys and mitigation proposals.”

    • Niall Braidwood, Ogilvy Chalmers, Haddington

  • “Thank you for your help in doing the survey, and the speed of your response. Charlotte seemed very knowledgable. She was very helpful and happy to respond to our questions! Your report gave us all the answers we needed.”

    • Chris Gunstone, Tyninghame Village Hall Committee, East Lothian

  • “We have worked with David and his team in many projects and he is a real expert in the field. From enquiry, to survey, to receiving the report, they are always professional and provide a high quality service.”

    • Arancha Arnal, Blyth and Bluth Consulting Engineers, Edinburgh

  • “Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) has used David Dodds Associates and their services for projects that required their extensive and specialist expertise. David has not only assisted in a prompt and professional manner he also provided a welcomed insight into the world of bat protection, articulating how best to approach situations to ensure SRUC deliver projects whilst the species, environment and landscape remain protected.”

    • Leeanne Price, S.R.U.C., Penicuik

  • “David has routinely provided timely, proactive and helpful advice to assist and enable building fabric projects to progress in a compliant manner and remains my first point of contact for any ecological requirements”.

    • Craig Mattocks, Cademuir Building Consultants, Peebles